Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday welcomed what he called was end to 'tyrant' Donald Trump's rule. Rouhani said that the ball was "in America's court" in order to return to landmark nuclear deal. On Wednesday, Joe Biden took oath to become 46th President of the United States of America. Biden has showed a willingness to engage with Iran again. Donald Trump had taken America out of the landmark nuclear deal struck with Iran by USA and other global powers.&nbsp;

Rouhani labelled Trump "someone for whom all of his four years bore no fruit other than injustice and corruption and causing problems for his own people and the world". Former US President Donald Trump had adopted the strategy of "maximum pressure" against Iran. 
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The sanctions targeted Iran's vital oil sales and international banking ties, plunging its economy into a deep recession.&nbsp;

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Biden was vice-president under Barack Obama when nuclear deal with Iran was struck. The deal imposed clear limits on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for relief from international sanctions. Since 2019, Tehran has suspended its compliance with most of the limits set by the agreement in response to Washington's abandonment of the deal under Obama.

Rouhani said Trump's political career had "died ... but the JCPOA is alive," referring to the agreement's official name, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.&nbsp;

"He did all he could to destroy the JCPOA but could not.

"We expect (the Biden administration) to return to law and to commitments, and try in the next four years, if they can, to remove the stains of the past four years," he added.

Biden's pick for secretary of state, Anthony Blinken, said at a Senate confirmation hearing Tuesday that Trump's policies had made Iran "more dangerous".

Blinken confirmed Biden's desire for Washington to return to the nuclear agreement, but said that was conditional on Tehran's return to strict compliance with its commitments.

(With AFP inputs)

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday welcomed what he called was end to 'tyrant' Donald Trump's rule. Rouhani said that the ball was "in America's court" in order to return to landmark nuclear deal.

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday welcomed what he called was end to 'tyrant' Donald Trump's rule. Rouhani said that the ball was "in America's court" in order to return to landmark nuclear deal. On Wednesday, Joe Biden took oath to become 46th President of the United States of America. Biden has showed a willingness to engage with Iran again. Donald Trump had taken America out of the landmark nuclear deal struck with Iran by USA and other global powers. Rouhani labelled Trump "someone for whom all of his four years bore no fruit other than injustice and corruption and causing problems for his own people and the world". Former US President Donald Trump had adopted the strategy of "maximum pressure" against Iran. The sanctions targeted Iran's vital oil sales and international banking ties, plunging its economy into a deep recession. Click here for LIVE updates Biden was vice-president under Barack Obama when nuclear deal with Iran was struck. The deal imposed clear limits on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for relief from international sanctions. Since 2019, Tehran has suspended its compliance with most of the limits set by the agreement in response to Washington's abandonment of the deal under Obama. Rouhani said Trump's political career had "died ... but the JCPOA is alive," referring to the agreement's official name, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. "He did all he could to destroy the JCPOA but could not. "We expect (the Biden administration) to return to law and to commitments, and try in the next four years, if they can, to remove the stains of the past four years," he added. Biden's pick for secretary of state, Anthony Blinken, said at a Senate confirmation hearing Tuesday that Trump's policies had made Iran "more dangerous". Blinken confirmed Biden's desire for Washington to return to the nuclear agreement, but said that was conditional on Tehran's return to strict compliance with its commitments. (With AFP inputs)

Iran hails end of 'tyrant' Trump's regime

Print media in Arab states of the Gulf gave a cautious welcome to US President Joe Biden who was sworn in as 46th President of the USA on Wednesday. The caution appeared to be due to USA's yet uncertain stance towards Iran. Biden aides have indicated that the administration would be keen to re-enter 2015 nuclear deal with Iran. However, they have also cautioned Iran in recent past to not become complacent.

"Goodbye Trump, hello Biden," Saudi columnist Abdulrahman Al-Rashed wrote in the pan-Arab daily Asharq Al-Awsat.

Like other Gulf commentators, he pointed to concerns over whether the new US administration's policies will mirror those of Barack Obama, for whom Biden served as vice president.

Biden is expected to re-adopt a less confrontational stance towards the Islamic republic, unlike Trump's policy of "maximum pressure" and high tensions.

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The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by USA under Barack Obama along with other world powers. The development was considered to be a landmark achievement and much political capital was spent in securing the deal.

However, Trump unilaterally took the USA out of the deal and applied "maximum pressure" on Iran. Under Trump, America also assassinated Iran's once-untouchable military commander Qasem Soleimani. Trump also cultivated close relations with Gulf monarchies

Saudi Arabia's pro-government Okaz asked whether the Biden administration would stand by Washington's Arab allies or "renew with their enemies".

In Bahrain, the paper Akhbar Al-Khaleej said Trump deserved "thanks and appreciation".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/widely-praised-joe-bidens-speech-written-by-indian-american-358312">Widely praised Joe Biden's speech written by Indian American</a>

His "policies and positions against Iran have established a new reality in American dealings with Iran, and it will be difficult for the Biden administration to completely bypass them," its columnist Al-Sayed Zahra wrote.

Just across the Gulf from Iran, Bahrain is a longstanding Western ally and home to the US Fifth Fleet.

Print media in Arab states of the Gulf gave a cautious welcome to US President Joe Biden who was sworn in as 46th President of the USA on Wednesday. The caution appeared to be due to USA's yet uncertain stance towards Iran.

Print media in Arab states of the Gulf gave a cautious welcome to US President Joe Biden who was sworn in as 46th President of the USA on Wednesday. The caution appeared to be due to USA's yet uncertain stance towards Iran. Biden aides have indicated that the administration would be keen to re-enter 2015 nuclear deal with Iran. However, they have also cautioned Iran in recent past to not become complacent. "Goodbye Trump, hello Biden," Saudi columnist Abdulrahman Al-Rashed wrote in the pan-Arab daily Asharq Al-Awsat. Like other Gulf commentators, he pointed to concerns over whether the new US administration's policies will mirror those of Barack Obama, for whom Biden served as vice president. Biden is expected to re-adopt a less confrontational stance towards the Islamic republic, unlike Trump's policy of "maximum pressure" and high tensions. × The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by USA under Barack Obama along with other world powers. The development was considered to be a landmark achievement and much political capital was spent in securing the deal. However, Trump unilaterally took the USA out of the deal and applied "maximum pressure" on Iran. Under Trump, America also assassinated Iran's once-untouchable military commander Qasem Soleimani. Trump also cultivated close relations with Gulf monarchies Saudi Arabia's pro-government Okaz asked whether the Biden administration would stand by Washington's Arab allies or "renew with their enemies". In Bahrain, the paper Akhbar Al-Khaleej said Trump deserved "thanks and appreciation". Also Read | Widely praised Joe Biden's speech written by Indian American His "policies and positions against Iran have established a new reality in American dealings with Iran, and it will be difficult for the Biden administration to completely bypass them," its columnist Al-Sayed Zahra wrote. Just across the Gulf from Iran, Bahrain is a longstanding Western ally and home to the US Fifth Fleet.

Cautious welcome for Biden in Gulf amid yet uncertain Iran policy

As the US is busy beefing up the security in Washington to make sure no riots break out during the inauguration ceremony of the President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>, the world is making fun of their crumbling democracy.

Iran's most senior general has taken this opportunity of a "war-like zone" in the US to ridicule the Trump-run country for tits mob mentality and desperate efforts by the military to safeguard the country.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-vets-national-guard-troops-fearing-insider-attack-during-biden-inauguration-report-357417" hreflang="en">FBI vets National Guard troops fearing 'insider attack' during Biden inauguration: Report</a>

A few days after the National Guards were deployed in heavy numbers throughout the city, Iran's Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri took a hit at the US saying, "We are at the peak [of our power] today as enemies are collapsing."

Recalling previous statements, promises and claims, he laughed at the ironic situation as the US had, according to the general, hoped to overthrow the Iranian government at on point, but was now struggling to keep its own government running smoothly.

"They wanted the Islamic Republic not to see the 40th anniversary of its revolution, but the building of their own Congress came under siege," Baqeri said. "Their officials voiced concern that their prestige is being spoiled before the eyes of the world, and now the US Armed Forces are on alert … for the swearing-in ceremony of the new president."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/washington-on-high-alert-ahead-of-biden-inauguration-357513">WATCH|</a>

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Baqeri is the chief of staff for Iran's Armed Forces who laughed at the condition of the US during his speech at a ceremony on Monday.

This statement has come a few days after the Iranian President Hassan Rouhani described the Capitol riots as a sign of weakness of the democracy of one of the strongest nations of the world.

"We saw that, unfortunately, the ground is fertile for populism, despite the advances in science and industry," he said.

Recently, on January 09, the Iranian spokesperson had also issued a statement with the message that&nbsp;Iran hopes the incoming US President Joe Biden will reverse the US sanctions on Iran by February 21.&nbsp;

As the US is busy beefing up the security in Washington to make sure no riots break out during the inauguration ceremony of the President-elect Joe Biden, the world is making fun of their crumbling democracy.

As the US is busy beefing up the security in Washington to make sure no riots break out during the inauguration ceremony of the President-elect Joe Biden, the world is making fun of their crumbling democracy. Iran's most senior general has taken this opportunity of a "war-like zone" in the US to ridicule the Trump-run country for tits mob mentality and desperate efforts by the military to safeguard the country. Also read| FBI vets National Guard troops fearing 'insider attack' during Biden inauguration: Report A few days after the National Guards were deployed in heavy numbers throughout the city, Iran's Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri took a hit at the US saying, "We are at the peak [of our power] today as enemies are collapsing." Recalling previous statements, promises and claims, he laughed at the ironic situation as the US had, according to the general, hoped to overthrow the Iranian government at on point, but was now struggling to keep its own government running smoothly. "They wanted the Islamic Republic not to see the 40th anniversary of its revolution, but the building of their own Congress came under siege," Baqeri said. "Their officials voiced concern that their prestige is being spoiled before the eyes of the world, and now the US Armed Forces are on alert … for the swearing-in ceremony of the new president." WATCH| Baqeri is the chief of staff for Iran's Armed Forces who laughed at the condition of the US during his speech at a ceremony on Monday. This statement has come a few days after the Iranian President Hassan Rouhani described the Capitol riots as a sign of weakness of the democracy of one of the strongest nations of the world. "We saw that, unfortunately, the ground is fertile for populism, despite the advances in science and industry," he said. Recently, on January 09, the Iranian spokesperson had also issued a statement with the message that Iran hopes the incoming US President Joe Biden will reverse the US sanctions on Iran by February 21.

Iran laughs at US' crumbling democracy amid fears of riots during Biden's inauguration

Fast pacing the work on the crucial Chabahar port, the Government of India has supplied the much-awaited first shipment of mobile harbour cranes to Iran. Two 140-ton mobile harbour cranes arrived at the Chabahar port on Saturday night and are being currently unloaded. India has supplied the cranes via an Italian company called Italgru.

Chabahar has been a key connectivity project of India that aims to connect it with Iran, Afghanistan, and beyond. More and more countries are keen to join the port now. December saw the first India-Uzbekistan-Iran trilateral working group meeting on the joint use of the port for trade and transit purposes and enhanced regional connectivity. New Delhi will be inviting Afghanistan for the next meeting. India is also pursuing the inclusion of Chabahar port in INSTC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kazakhstan-bats-for-chabahar-port-envoy-says-process-underway-for-use-via-caspian-sea-354885">WATCH|</a>

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Kazakhstan envoy speaking to WION highlighted the importance of the port for the country. Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev to India said, "Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done"

India is involved with the development of phase-I of the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar. In December 2018, an Indian company, India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) took over the port operations, and as of December 2020, the port has handled 1.75 million tonnes of bulk cargo and more than 13,000 TEUs of container cargo.&nbsp;

India has used the port to send 75,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan in 2020 as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the covid pandemic. India also supplied 20,000 litres of the pesticide Malathion 96 per cent ULV to Iran via Chabahar port in 2020 to help Iran curb the menace of desert locusts. Another Malathion consignment from India to Iran is due this year.

Fast pacing the work on the crucial Chabahar port, the Government of India has supplied the much-awaited first shipment of mobile harbour cranes to Iran. Two 140-ton mobile harbour cranes arrived at the Chabahar port on Saturday night and are being currently unloaded.

Fast pacing the work on the crucial Chabahar port, the Government of India has supplied the much-awaited first shipment of mobile harbour cranes to Iran. Two 140-ton mobile harbour cranes arrived at the Chabahar port on Saturday night and are being currently unloaded. India has supplied the cranes via an Italian company called Italgru. Chabahar has been a key connectivity project of India that aims to connect it with Iran, Afghanistan, and beyond. More and more countries are keen to join the port now. December saw the first India-Uzbekistan-Iran trilateral working group meeting on the joint use of the port for trade and transit purposes and enhanced regional connectivity. New Delhi will be inviting Afghanistan for the next meeting. India is also pursuing the inclusion of Chabahar port in INSTC. WATCH| Kazakhstan envoy speaking to WION highlighted the importance of the port for the country. Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev to India said, "Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done" India is involved with the development of phase-I of the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar. In December 2018, an Indian company, India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) took over the port operations, and as of December 2020, the port has handled 1.75 million tonnes of bulk cargo and more than 13,000 TEUs of container cargo. India has used the port to send 75,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan in 2020 as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the covid pandemic. India also supplied 20,000 litres of the pesticide Malathion 96 per cent ULV to Iran via Chabahar port in 2020 to help Iran curb the menace of desert locusts. Another Malathion consignment from India to Iran is due this year.

Work on Chabahar fast-paced as India begins handing over cranes to Iran

Wrapping up a two-day exercise Iran's revolutionary guard's test-fired ballistic missiles against targets in the Indian ocean.

Iran test-fires ballistic missiles, hits targets in the Indian Ocean

Tensions emerge in the Gulf after Iran seized a South Korean vessel at the Strait of Hormuz. South Korea sends delegation to Tehran but Iran is adamant on one demand. WION tells you what.

Iran demands release of assets in South Korea

Canada and other nations whose citizens died in Iran's downing of a Ukrainian jetliner one year ago on Friday called on Tehran to come clean about the tragedy and "deliver justice" for the victims' families.

"We urgently call on Iran to provide a complete and thorough explanation of the events and decisions that led to this appalling plane crash," the coordination and response group made up of Canada, Britain, Ukraine, Sweden and Afghanistan said in a statement.

They also said they "will hold Iran to account to deliver justice and make sure Iran makes full reparations to the families of the victims and affected countries."

In Toronto, in Canada's Ontario province, nearly 200 people gathered under cloudy skies Friday afternoon in front of the University of Toronto before holding a march in honor of the crash victims, according to an AFP photographer at the scene.

Many people carried signs depicting the victims' photos and names. Other people wore black face masks printed with the word "Justice."

Among the marchers was Hamid Niazi, who lost his wife, daughter and son in the crash.

"I am not sure how I can explain that, I am still in (a) state of denial and disbelief. I can't believe that that happened to my family," he told AFP.

"Sometimes I think I am having a nightmare, that this couldn't happen."

In Kiev, where the doomed plane was bound, wreaths of flowers were laid on the site of a future memorial dedicated to the victims. A giant screen showed photos of the passengers and crew members.

- 'Thorough, transparent and credible investigation' -

At the end of December, Iran offered to pay US$150,000 to each of the families of the victims of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752, acknowledging that its forces had mistakenly shot it down on January 8, 2020, killing all 176 people on board, including 85 Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

On Thursday, Canadian Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne rejected the offer, saying: "The issue of compensation will not be set through unilateral statements by Iran but rather be subject to state-to-state negotiations."

In a separate statement on Friday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau once again demanded from Iran a "thorough, transparent and credible investigation into the cause of this tragedy."

He also vowed "to hold Iran accountable, including by ensuring that Iran makes full reparations for the victims of PS752 and their grieving families, and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice."

In mid-December, Canada's special counsel into the tragedy, former minister Ralph Goodale, issued a 70-page report arguing that Iran should not be "investigating itself" over the matter, emphasizing that many of the key details surrounding the crash remained unknown.

Trudeau, Champagne and several other members of the government spoke with victims' families on Thursday during a private virtual commemoration.

The prime minister also recently announced that January 8 would become known as Canada's National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Air Disasters.

Canada and other nations whose citizens died in Iran's downing of a Ukrainian jetliner one year ago on Friday called on Tehran to come clean about the tragedy and "deliver justice" for the victims' families.

Canada and other nations whose citizens died in Iran's downing of a Ukrainian jetliner one year ago on Friday called on Tehran to come clean about the tragedy and "deliver justice" for the victims' families. "We urgently call on Iran to provide a complete and thorough explanation of the events and decisions that led to this appalling plane crash," the coordination and response group made up of Canada, Britain, Ukraine, Sweden and Afghanistan said in a statement. They also said they "will hold Iran to account to deliver justice and make sure Iran makes full reparations to the families of the victims and affected countries." In Toronto, in Canada's Ontario province, nearly 200 people gathered under cloudy skies Friday afternoon in front of the University of Toronto before holding a march in honor of the crash victims, according to an AFP photographer at the scene. Many people carried signs depicting the victims' photos and names. Other people wore black face masks printed with the word "Justice." Among the marchers was Hamid Niazi, who lost his wife, daughter and son in the crash. "I am not sure how I can explain that, I am still in (a) state of denial and disbelief. I can't believe that that happened to my family," he told AFP. "Sometimes I think I am having a nightmare, that this couldn't happen." In Kiev, where the doomed plane was bound, wreaths of flowers were laid on the site of a future memorial dedicated to the victims. A giant screen showed photos of the passengers and crew members. - 'Thorough, transparent and credible investigation' - At the end of December, Iran offered to pay US$150,000 to each of the families of the victims of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752, acknowledging that its forces had mistakenly shot it down on January 8, 2020, killing all 176 people on board, including 85 Canadian citizens and permanent residents. On Thursday, Canadian Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne rejected the offer, saying: "The issue of compensation will not be set through unilateral statements by Iran but rather be subject to state-to-state negotiations." In a separate statement on Friday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau once again demanded from Iran a "thorough, transparent and credible investigation into the cause of this tragedy." He also vowed "to hold Iran accountable, including by ensuring that Iran makes full reparations for the victims of PS752 and their grieving families, and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice." In mid-December, Canada's special counsel into the tragedy, former minister Ralph Goodale, issued a 70-page report arguing that Iran should not be "investigating itself" over the matter, emphasizing that many of the key details surrounding the crash remained unknown. Trudeau, Champagne and several other members of the government spoke with victims' families on Thursday during a private virtual commemoration. The prime minister also recently announced that January 8 would become known as Canada's National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Air Disasters.

One year after plane downed, victims' governments demand justice from Iran

Iran has officially banned all foreign companies from testing coronavirus vaccines on its people. This comes in a day after President Hassan Rouhani, Iran's Supreme Leader banned imports of vaccines from the United States and Britain. 
 
"Foreign companies wanted to give us vaccines so they would be tested on the Iranian people. But the health ministry prevented it," Rouhani said in a televised appearance. Rouhani did not directly name the companies, and did not offer more details.

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"Our people will not be a testing device for vaccine manufacturing companies," he added.&nbsp;

But this does not mean that the country is shunning foreign vaccines altogether. Rouhani added that the country intends to purchase safe foreign vaccines.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/iranian-supreme-leader-announces-ban-of-covid-19-vaccines-from-us-uk-355450" hreflang="en">Iranian Supreme Leader announces ban on Covid-19 vaccines from US, UK</a>

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the country's highest authority on Friday said that the US and Britain were ''untrustworthy'', and wanted to spread the coronavirus infection to other countries. 
 
Khamenei did add that the country is planning to obtain vaccines from other "reliable places", without naming any specific countries.

China and Russia, who are both producing indigenous vaccines are considered allies of Iran, which remains the hardest hit Middle Eastern country.

Khamenei made the same claims on Twitter, after which his post was removed by the company for violating the platform's rules against misinformation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/iran-in-no-rush-to-see-us-return-to-nuclear-deal-khamenei-355376" hreflang="en">Iran in no rush to see US return to nuclear deal: Khamenei</a>

Last month, the country launched trials of its first local coronavirus vaccine candidate. The country claimed that this would help derail the virus, amid US sanctions that prevent the country from importing vaccines.

Since 2018, tensions between Iran and the US have heightened after Trump abandoned a nuclear deal from 2015, after which he reimposed sanctions on the country.

Iran has officially banned all foreign companies from testing coronavirus vaccines on its people. This comes in a day after President Hassan Rouhani, Iran's Supreme Leader banned imports of vaccines from the United States and Britain.

Iran has officially banned all foreign companies from testing coronavirus vaccines on its people. This comes in a day after President Hassan Rouhani, Iran's Supreme Leader banned imports of vaccines from the United States and Britain. "Foreign companies wanted to give us vaccines so they would be tested on the Iranian people. But the health ministry prevented it," Rouhani said in a televised appearance. Rouhani did not directly name the companies, and did not offer more details. "Our people will not be a testing device for vaccine manufacturing companies," he added. But this does not mean that the country is shunning foreign vaccines altogether. Rouhani added that the country intends to purchase safe foreign vaccines. Also read: Iranian Supreme Leader announces ban on Covid-19 vaccines from US, UK Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the country's highest authority on Friday said that the US and Britain were ''untrustworthy'', and wanted to spread the coronavirus infection to other countries. Khamenei did add that the country is planning to obtain vaccines from other "reliable places", without naming any specific countries. China and Russia, who are both producing indigenous vaccines are considered allies of Iran, which remains the hardest hit Middle Eastern country. Khamenei made the same claims on Twitter, after which his post was removed by the company for violating the platform's rules against misinformation. Also read: Iran in no rush to see US return to nuclear deal: Khamenei Last month, the country launched trials of its first local coronavirus vaccine candidate. The country claimed that this would help derail the virus, amid US sanctions that prevent the country from importing vaccines. Since 2018, tensions between Iran and the US have heightened after Trump abandoned a nuclear deal from 2015, after which he reimposed sanctions on the country.

Iran bans foreign companies from testing coronavirus vaccines on its people

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that Tehran is in no rush for the United States to rejoin the 2015 Nuclear Agreement. He urged that sanctions imposed on Iran to be lifted.

Iran to US: Lift sanctions immediately

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Friday described <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccines</a> produced by the US and the UK as "completely untrustworthy" and prohibited their import in the country.

"Importing vaccines made in the US or the UK is prohibited. They're completely untrustworthy. It's not unlikely they would want to contaminate other nations. Given our experience with France's HIV-tainted blood supplies, French vaccines aren't trustworthy either," Khamenei wrote in a tweet on Friday.&nbsp;

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Importing vaccines made in the US or the UK is prohibited. They're completely untrustworthy. It's not unlikely they would want to contaminate other nations. Given our experience with France's HIV-tainted blood supplies, French vaccines aren't trustworthy either. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronaVaccine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronaVaccine</a>
— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1347489585983610880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In a televised speech, he also said that Washington and Britain are two worst-hit nations and therefore he has no confidence in the vaccines manufactured by these nations.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"If the Americans had managed to manufacture a vaccine, this coronavirus fiasco wouldn't have happened in their own country,” Rouhani was quoted as saying in the speech by Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-increases-covid-vaccine-deal-with-pfizer-biontech-to-600-million-doses-355382">EU increases COVID vaccine deal with Pfizer-BioNTech to 600 million doses</a>

Iran is the worst-affected hit country by the pandemic in the Middle East and the first cases emerged in February 2020.&nbsp;

Earlier, Iran accused its arch-rival US of blocking its access to vaccines by enforcing tough sanctions regime.

Even though food and medicine are exempt from these sanctions, international banks tend to decline transactions that involve Iran.

Iranian President has said Washington had asked Tehran to pay for the drugs via US banks and said he feared the United States would seize the money.&nbsp;

Late in December, Iran announced the first phase of a clinical trial of an indigenous vaccine.&nbsp;

Tehran is also working to get 16.8 million doses of vaccines from COVAX, a global effort to provide vaccines by the World Health Organization.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Friday described coronavirus vaccines produced by the US and the UK as "completely untrustworthy" and prohibited their import in the country.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Friday described coronavirus vaccines produced by the US and the UK as "completely untrustworthy" and prohibited their import in the country. "Importing vaccines made in the US or the UK is prohibited. They're completely untrustworthy. It's not unlikely they would want to contaminate other nations. Given our experience with France's HIV-tainted blood supplies, French vaccines aren't trustworthy either," Khamenei wrote in a tweet on Friday. Importing vaccines made in the US or the UK is prohibited. They're completely untrustworthy. It's not unlikely they would want to contaminate other nations. Given our experience with France's HIV-tainted blood supplies, French vaccines aren't trustworthy either. #CoronaVaccine — Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) January 8, 2021 × In a televised speech, he also said that Washington and Britain are two worst-hit nations and therefore he has no confidence in the vaccines manufactured by these nations. Watch | "If the Americans had managed to manufacture a vaccine, this coronavirus fiasco wouldn't have happened in their own country,” Rouhani was quoted as saying in the speech by Al Jazeera. Also read | EU increases COVID vaccine deal with Pfizer-BioNTech to 600 million doses Iran is the worst-affected hit country by the pandemic in the Middle East and the first cases emerged in February 2020. Earlier, Iran accused its arch-rival US of blocking its access to vaccines by enforcing tough sanctions regime. Even though food and medicine are exempt from these sanctions, international banks tend to decline transactions that involve Iran. Iranian President has said Washington had asked Tehran to pay for the drugs via US banks and said he feared the United States would seize the money. Late in December, Iran announced the first phase of a clinical trial of an indigenous vaccine. Tehran is also working to get 16.8 million doses of vaccines from COVAX, a global effort to provide vaccines by the World Health Organization.

Iranian Supreme Leader announces ban on Covid-19 vaccines from US, UK

Iran`s elite Revolutionary Guards unveiled an underground missile base at an undisclosed Gulf location on Friday, Iranian state media reported, at a time of heightened tension between Tehran and the United States.

"The base is one of several bases housing the Guards` Navy`s strategic missiles," the state media quoted the head of the Guards, Major General Hossein Salami, as saying.

Last year, the Guards said Iran had built underground “missile cities” along the Gulf coastline, warning of a “nightmare for Iran’s enemies”.

"These missiles have ranges of hundreds of kilometres, enjoy pinpoint accuracy and huge destructive power, and can overcome the enemy’s electronic warfare equipment," Salami said.

He said the base was "one of several bases housing the Navy’s strategic missiles".

There have been periodic confrontations in the Gulf in recent years between the Guards and the U.S. military, which has accused the Guards’ navy of sending fast attack boats to harass U.S. warships as they pass the Strait of Hormuz.

Tensions have been high between Tehran and Washington since 2018, when President Donald Trump exited the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers which limits the Islamic Republic`s nuclear programme and reimposed sanctions that have crippled the country`s economy.

Iran`s elite Revolutionary Guards unveiled an underground missile base at an undisclosed Gulf location on Friday, Iranian state media reported, at a time of heightened tension between Tehran and the United States.

Iran`s elite Revolutionary Guards unveiled an underground missile base at an undisclosed Gulf location on Friday, Iranian state media reported, at a time of heightened tension between Tehran and the United States. "The base is one of several bases housing the Guards` Navy`s strategic missiles," the state media quoted the head of the Guards, Major General Hossein Salami, as saying. Last year, the Guards said Iran had built underground “missile cities” along the Gulf coastline, warning of a “nightmare for Iran’s enemies”. "These missiles have ranges of hundreds of kilometres, enjoy pinpoint accuracy and huge destructive power, and can overcome the enemy’s electronic warfare equipment," Salami said. He said the base was "one of several bases housing the Navy’s strategic missiles". There have been periodic confrontations in the Gulf in recent years between the Guards and the U.S. military, which has accused the Guards’ navy of sending fast attack boats to harass U.S. warships as they pass the Strait of Hormuz. Tensions have been high between Tehran and Washington since 2018, when President Donald Trump exited the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers which limits the Islamic Republic`s nuclear programme and reimposed sanctions that have crippled the country`s economy.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards unveil underground missile base in Gulf

Iran is in no hurry to see the US return to a 2015 nuclear deal with major powers after Joe Biden takes office this month, its supreme leader said Friday.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said it was not a question of "whether the United States returns or not", it was a matter of it lifting its unilateral sanctions.

"We are in no rush and we are not insisting on their return. Our demand, which is both logical and rational, is the lifting of sanctions" that outgoing US President Donald Trump reimposed after quitting the deal in 2018.

"We are talking about a right which has been stolen from the Iranian nation," Khamenei said in a televised speech.

"If the sanctions are lifted, the return of the Americans makes sense."

Since 2019, Iran has gradually suspended implementation of most of its key obligations under the nuclear deal, which set strict limits on its activities in return for the lifting of sanctions.

Other parties to the agreement, notably Britain, France and Germany, have pressed Iran to return to its commitments in a bid to rescue the deal, but Iran has repeatedly demanded that the United States first lift its crippling sanctions.

"When the other party meets practically none of its obligations, it is not logical for the Islamic republic to honour all of its commitments," Khamenei said.

"If they return to their commitments, we will return to ours."

Iran is in no hurry to see the US return to a 2015 nuclear deal with major powers after Joe Biden takes office this month, its supreme leader said Friday. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said it was not a question of "whether the United States returns or not", it was a matter of it lifting its unilateral sanctions.

Iran is in no hurry to see the US return to a 2015 nuclear deal with major powers after Joe Biden takes office this month, its supreme leader said Friday. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said it was not a question of "whether the United States returns or not", it was a matter of it lifting its unilateral sanctions. "We are in no rush and we are not insisting on their return. Our demand, which is both logical and rational, is the lifting of sanctions" that outgoing US President Donald Trump reimposed after quitting the deal in 2018. "We are talking about a right which has been stolen from the Iranian nation," Khamenei said in a televised speech. "If the sanctions are lifted, the return of the Americans makes sense." Since 2019, Iran has gradually suspended implementation of most of its key obligations under the nuclear deal, which set strict limits on its activities in return for the lifting of sanctions. Other parties to the agreement, notably Britain, France and Germany, have pressed Iran to return to its commitments in a bid to rescue the deal, but Iran has repeatedly demanded that the United States first lift its crippling sanctions. "When the other party meets practically none of its obligations, it is not logical for the Islamic republic to honour all of its commitments," Khamenei said. "If they return to their commitments, we will return to ours."

Iran in no rush to see US return to nuclear deal: Khamenei

A South Korean delegation is heading to Iran on Wednesday to seek the release of a chemicals tanker and its 20-member crew seized in Gulf waters by Iranian forces, Yonhap news agency reported.

South Korea delegation heads to Iran to seek release of seized tanker

The US Federal law enforcement is investigating a chilling threat to hit the Capitol building with a plane sent to New York air traffic controllers Monday, CBS reports.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/year-after-soleimani-killing-iran-unleashes-kamikaze-drones-amid-tensions-with-us-354630">In pictures: Year after Soleimani killing, Iran unleashes 'kamikaze' drones amid tensions with US</a>

The officials are investigating a terrifying message threatening to fly a plane into the Capitol building to avenge the death of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani, which was broadcasted on air traffic control frequencies.

In an audio message, an unidentified voice says, “We are flying a plane into the Capitol on Wednesday. Soleimani will be avenged.”&nbsp;

The threat arrived on the anniversary of the killing of top Iranian military official Qassem Soleimani by US drone strike.

General Qassem Soleimani, the former head of Iran's Quds Force, the external operations branch of the country's Islamic Guard Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was killed by the U.S. military near Baghdad International Airport in Iraq a year ago.

It is not yet clear who sent the message and the threat is not believed to credible, CBS reports, but the Pentagon and other agencies were briefed on Tuesday. &nbsp;

CBS News states that US officials don't believe what the air traffic controllers heard was a credible threat, although it is a major breach of radio transmission protocol and they are investigating it as such.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Federal law enforcement is investigating a chilling threat to hit the Capitol building with a plane sent to New York air traffic controllers Monday, CBS reports.

The US Federal law enforcement is investigating a chilling threat to hit the Capitol building with a plane sent to New York air traffic controllers Monday, CBS reports. In pictures: Year after Soleimani killing, Iran unleashes 'kamikaze' drones amid tensions with US The officials are investigating a terrifying message threatening to fly a plane into the Capitol building to avenge the death of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani, which was broadcasted on air traffic control frequencies. In an audio message, an unidentified voice says, “We are flying a plane into the Capitol on Wednesday. Soleimani will be avenged.” The threat arrived on the anniversary of the killing of top Iranian military official Qassem Soleimani by US drone strike. General Qassem Soleimani, the former head of Iran's Quds Force, the external operations branch of the country's Islamic Guard Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was killed by the U.S. military near Baghdad International Airport in Iraq a year ago. It is not yet clear who sent the message and the threat is not believed to credible, CBS reports, but the Pentagon and other agencies were briefed on Tuesday. CBS News states that US officials don't believe what the air traffic controllers heard was a credible threat, although it is a major breach of radio transmission protocol and they are investigating it as such. (With inputs from agencies)

'Flying plane into Washington to avenge Soleimani's death': Audio message prompts federal probe

Iran has seized a South Korean tanker in the Persian Gulf. Tehran is demanding more than $7 billion from South Korea. These are Iranian funds frozen in Korean banks due to American sanctions.

Gravitas: Iran has seized a South Korean tanker

South Korea’s foreign ministry demanded the vessel’s immediate release and said South Korean forces stationed in the strait of Hormuz had been dispatched to the area.

Iran flexes powers in Strait of Hormuz, continues to hold South Korea's tanker | Iran-South Korea

A South Korean tank was seized by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian forces say the ship held because it was polluting the Persian gulf with chemicals but only the naive would believe that justification. Iran was flexing its dominance in the area and in doing so, sending a clear signal to both South Korea and more importantly the US.

This development comes amid rising tension between Iran and the outgoing Trump administration.

On Monday, Iran resumed enriching uranium once again. This a significant breach of the 2015 nuclear accord and was done to retaliate against Washington. The US had withdrawn from the agreement in 2019 and reimposed sanctions against Tehran.

In another showcase of its military might, today Iran began a massive military drone exercise.&nbsp;This is the first large-scale drone-only drill that Iran is known to have conducted.

Have a look|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/year-after-soleimani-killing-iran-unleashes-kamikaze-drones-amid-tensions-with-us-354630">Year after Soleimani killing, Iran unleashes 'kamikaze' drones amid tensions with US</a>

Iran is also angry about the killing of its top nuclear scientist&nbsp;which Tehran blames on Israel, an ally of the US.

So how did South Korea, a small country in Asia get caught up in the middle of Iran-US tensions?

On Monday, a South Korean oil tanker was travelling from Saudi Arabia to the UAE when it was flanked by Iran's revolutionary guards.&nbsp;It was escorted by Iranian forces to the port city of Bandar abbas.

All this occurred in a narrow stretch of sea called the Strait of Hormuz. Just around 21 miles wide, this strip of sea between Oman and Iran is the most sensitive choke point for all global oil supply. All tankers carrying crude oil from ports on the Persian Gulf must pass through this strait.

In 2018, the daily oil flow in this area averaged 21 million barrels per day. This is the equivalent of about 21 per cent of global petroleum consumption.

This is not the first time that Iran has seized ships of other countries. It has a history of seizing ships, especially if they belong to countries which have disputes with Tehran, and South Korea is currently not in Iran's good books.

South Korea is withholding billions of dollars of Iranian oil export revenue. Seoul is following US sanctions against Iran. South Korea demanded the immediate release of its vessel and dispatched its own forces to the area.

This comes just days ahead of a planned visit by South Korea's deputy foreign minister to Tehran.

Analysts say seizing the oil tanker was Iran's bid to force South Korea to come to the table and discuss repatriation of the Iranian money. So far Iran remains defiant.

A government&nbsp;spokesperson today said it's the Korean government holding Iranian money hostage.&nbsp;"If there is any hostage-taking, it is Korea's government that is holding more than $7 billion, which belongs to us, hostage on baseless grounds," said&nbsp;Iranian government spokesman.

However, Iran's move might have backfired as a South Korean foreign official has said that the deputy foreign minister's visit was now up in the air and the country's focus was now to free the 20 crew members of the ship.

A South Korean tank was seized by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian forces say the ship held because it was polluting the Persian gulf with chemicals but only the naive would believe that justification.

A South Korean tank was seized by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian forces say the ship held because it was polluting the Persian gulf with chemicals but only the naive would believe that justification. Iran was flexing its dominance in the area and in doing so, sending a clear signal to both South Korea and more importantly the US. This development comes amid rising tension between Iran and the outgoing Trump administration. On Monday, Iran resumed enriching uranium once again. This a significant breach of the 2015 nuclear accord and was done to retaliate against Washington. The US had withdrawn from the agreement in 2019 and reimposed sanctions against Tehran. In another showcase of its military might, today Iran began a massive military drone exercise. This is the first large-scale drone-only drill that Iran is known to have conducted. Have a look| Year after Soleimani killing, Iran unleashes 'kamikaze' drones amid tensions with US Iran is also angry about the killing of its top nuclear scientist which Tehran blames on Israel, an ally of the US. So how did South Korea, a small country in Asia get caught up in the middle of Iran-US tensions? On Monday, a South Korean oil tanker was travelling from Saudi Arabia to the UAE when it was flanked by Iran's revolutionary guards. It was escorted by Iranian forces to the port city of Bandar abbas. All this occurred in a narrow stretch of sea called the Strait of Hormuz. Just around 21 miles wide, this strip of sea between Oman and Iran is the most sensitive choke point for all global oil supply. All tankers carrying crude oil from ports on the Persian Gulf must pass through this strait. In 2018, the daily oil flow in this area averaged 21 million barrels per day. This is the equivalent of about 21 per cent of global petroleum consumption. This is not the first time that Iran has seized ships of other countries. It has a history of seizing ships, especially if they belong to countries which have disputes with Tehran, and South Korea is currently not in Iran's good books. South Korea is withholding billions of dollars of Iranian oil export revenue. Seoul is following US sanctions against Iran. South Korea demanded the immediate release of its vessel and dispatched its own forces to the area. This comes just days ahead of a planned visit by South Korea's deputy foreign minister to Tehran. Analysts say seizing the oil tanker was Iran's bid to force South Korea to come to the table and discuss repatriation of the Iranian money. So far Iran remains defiant. A government spokesperson today said it's the Korean government holding Iranian money hostage. "If there is any hostage-taking, it is Korea's government that is holding more than $7 billion, which belongs to us, hostage on baseless grounds," said Iranian government spokesman. However, Iran's move might have backfired as a South Korean foreign official has said that the deputy foreign minister's visit was now up in the air and the country's focus was now to free the 20 crew members of the ship.

Enriching uranium, showcase of drones and seizing South Korean tank: Iran shows its military might

The Iranian forces have seized a South Korean tanker in the state of Hormuz amidst the rising tensions with the United States in the final days of Donald Trump's Presidency.

S.Korea to send diplomat for Tehran talks after Iran seizes tanker

Iran on Tuesday began a massive military drone exercise in the north of the country, state media reported. Combat, surveillance, and suicide drones were involved in the two-day operation.

Iran launches vast military drone drill

Iran, on Tuesday, joined the list of countries that have identified cases of the new variant of coronavirus. The new variant is the one which was first reported by the British government.&nbsp;

"Sadly, the first instance of the mutated British COVID-19 was detected in one of our compatriots who had arrived from England,"&nbsp;Health Minister Saeed Namaki said in a televised address.

Alsoread|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portuguese-nurse-dies-two-days-after-getting-the-pfizer-covid-vaccine-354526">Portuguese nurse dies two days after getting the Pfizer Covid vaccine</a>

The patient, who has not been named, was admitted to a private hospital where the medical team detected that the virus was of the mutated type. "Our extensive testing showed (the virus) was of the mutated type," Namaki said.

While the patient is being treated under expert supervision, no traces of the virus were found in&nbsp;their family and acquaintances. This has been possible only because the patient had self-isolated upon arrival in the country.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portuguese-nurse-dies-two-days-after-getting-the-pfizer-covid-vaccine-354526">Portuguese nurse dies two days after getting the Pfizer Covid vaccine</a>

This report has come in at a time when the country had already been struggling to report the right figures of coronavirus cases as several officials, including Namaki, believe the actual figures would be higher than what is being reported. However, Namaki believes this is&nbsp;mostly due to testing protocols.

The new strain of the coronavirus has been reported to spread faster than the original variant., and has now spread in various other countries. many countries across the globe have also closed their international borders for all incoming passengers from the UK.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-poised-for-state-of-emergency-as-covid-19-cases-soar-354446">WATCH|</a>

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Iran recorded&nbsp;6,113 new coronavirus cases and 98 new deaths on Tuesday. The record-low number has been attributed to the partial lockdown guidelines which are still in place, weeks after its announcement.

Iran, on Tuesday, joined the list of countries that have identified cases of the new variant of coronavirus. The new variant is the one which was first reported by the British government.

Iran, on Tuesday, joined the list of countries that have identified cases of the new variant of coronavirus. The new variant is the one which was first reported by the British government. "Sadly, the first instance of the mutated British COVID-19 was detected in one of our compatriots who had arrived from England," Health Minister Saeed Namaki said in a televised address. Alsoread| Portuguese nurse dies two days after getting the Pfizer Covid vaccine The patient, who has not been named, was admitted to a private hospital where the medical team detected that the virus was of the mutated type. "Our extensive testing showed (the virus) was of the mutated type," Namaki said. While the patient is being treated under expert supervision, no traces of the virus were found in their family and acquaintances. This has been possible only because the patient had self-isolated upon arrival in the country. Also read| Portuguese nurse dies two days after getting the Pfizer Covid vaccine This report has come in at a time when the country had already been struggling to report the right figures of coronavirus cases as several officials, including Namaki, believe the actual figures would be higher than what is being reported. However, Namaki believes this is mostly due to testing protocols. The new strain of the coronavirus has been reported to spread faster than the original variant., and has now spread in various other countries. many countries across the globe have also closed their international borders for all incoming passengers from the UK. WATCH| × Iran recorded 6,113 new coronavirus cases and 98 new deaths on Tuesday. The record-low number has been attributed to the partial lockdown guidelines which are still in place, weeks after its announcement.

Iran reports first case of new variant of Coronavirus

Iran seizes South Korean tanker amidst rising tensions with the U.S.

South Korean tanker held by Iran in port of Bandar Abbas

United States aircraft carrier USS Nimitz will stay in the Gulf in view of the ''recent threats'' put forward by Iran, the Pentagon announced on Sunday.

Earlier, reports claimed that the ship was returning to the States to deescalate, citing acting US Defense Secretary Christopher C Miller. USS Nimitz has been in Gulf waters since November.&nbsp;

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According to the New York Times, the move was part of a ''de-escalatory'' signal to Iran in a bid to avoid conflict as Donald Trump spends his last few days in the presidential office. On Sunday, however, Miller issued a statement claiming the opposite.&nbsp; 
 
"Due to the recent threats issued by Iranian leaders against President Trump and other US&nbsp;government officials, I have ordered the USS Nimitz to halt its routine redeployment," Miller's statement said. 
 
"The USS Nimitz will now remain on station in the US&nbsp;Central Command area of operations.&nbsp;No one should doubt the resolve of the United States of America", it added.

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-year-after-soleimanis-killing-the-operation-the-method-and-sanctions-354213" hreflang="en">A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions</a>

Last year, a US drone strike in Baghdad led to the killing of Qasem Soleimani, a commander highly revered in Iran. In addition, the strike also killed his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.

On Sunday, thousands of Iraqis were seen chanting ''revenge'' and ''no to America'' on the first death anniversary of Soleimani.

Many supporters also joined in across countries like Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, and others.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-navy-denies-aircraft-carrier-nimitz-moved-into-gulf-over-iran-tensions-346121" hreflang="en">US navy denies aircraft carrier Nimitz moved into Gulf over Iran tensions</a> 
 
In 2018, Trump withdrew from a nuclear deal with Iran along with launching a pressure campaign against Tehran, which also reintroduced sanctions against Iran. Since 2019, both countries have come close to war multiple times. 
 
Soon after the attack, Iran attacked Iraqi bases that housed US troops among many. But Trump did not respond to any such attacks.

United States aircraft carrier USS Nimitz will stay in the Gulf in view of the ''recent threats'' put forward by Iran, the Pentagon announced on Sunday. Earlier, reports claimed that the ship was returning to the States to deescalate, citing acting US Defense Secretary Christopher C Miller.

United States aircraft carrier USS Nimitz will stay in the Gulf in view of the ''recent threats'' put forward by Iran, the Pentagon announced on Sunday. Earlier, reports claimed that the ship was returning to the States to deescalate, citing acting US Defense Secretary Christopher C Miller. USS Nimitz has been in Gulf waters since November. According to the New York Times, the move was part of a ''de-escalatory'' signal to Iran in a bid to avoid conflict as Donald Trump spends his last few days in the presidential office. On Sunday, however, Miller issued a statement claiming the opposite. "Due to the recent threats issued by Iranian leaders against President Trump and other US government officials, I have ordered the USS Nimitz to halt its routine redeployment," Miller's statement said. "The USS Nimitz will now remain on station in the US Central Command area of operations. No one should doubt the resolve of the United States of America", it added. In Pics: A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions Last year, a US drone strike in Baghdad led to the killing of Qasem Soleimani, a commander highly revered in Iran. In addition, the strike also killed his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis. On Sunday, thousands of Iraqis were seen chanting ''revenge'' and ''no to America'' on the first death anniversary of Soleimani. Many supporters also joined in across countries like Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, and others. Also read: US navy denies aircraft carrier Nimitz moved into Gulf over Iran tensions In 2018, Trump withdrew from a nuclear deal with Iran along with launching a pressure campaign against Tehran, which also reintroduced sanctions against Iran. Since 2019, both countries have come close to war multiple times. Soon after the attack, Iran attacked Iraqi bases that housed US troops among many. But Trump did not respond to any such attacks.

US aircraft carrier Nimitz to remain in Gulf as threat of conflict with Iran looms

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif urged U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday not to be "trapped" by an alleged Israeli plan to provoke a war through attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq.

Fineprint: Iran's Foreign Minister urges Trump to avoid Israel 'trap' to provoke war

January 3, 2021, marked completion of one year of the assassination of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad International airport in Iraq. Soleimani along with his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were among those killed in addition to other commanders.

Thousands of Iraqi mourners condemned the killing and raised anti-US chants near Baghdad airport. Similar protests were seen in Syria, Lebanon, Yemen and elsewhere. Thousands of black-clad mourners Saturday night converged at the spot near Baghdad's international airport where the US hit the two vehicles and killed Soleimani, Muhandis and eight other men. The drone strike was ordered last year by outgoing US President Donald Trump last year.

Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus.

The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels.

"We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar.

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&nbsp;

The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes.&nbsp;

Soleimani's killing led to skyrocketing of tension between Iran and US who have been at odds for the much of Trump's presidency. As the first death anniversary approached the tension began rising again.

With more mass gatherings planned Sunday at Baghdad's central Tahrir Square, Ahmed Assadi, one of the leaders of Hashed's parliamentary bloc, vowed: "Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, we will go out by the millions to brandish your portrait on Tahrir".

In Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-year-after-soleimanis-killing-the-operation-the-method-and-sanctions-354213">A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions</a>

Giant posters of Soleimani and Muhandis were hung up above the iconic square, which in late 2019 became the centre of large anti-government protests, from an abandoned building known as the Turkish restaurant.

Amid the tensions, Iraqis, and many in the wider region, are nervously watching for any signs of escalation before Trump leaves the White House on January 20.

Trump confronted decades-old foe Iran by withdrawing in 2018 from its nuclear deal with world powers and launching a "maximum pressure" campaign to further economically punish and isolate the country.

Trump recently tweeted that the US was hearing the "chatter of additional attacks against Americans in Iraq", and warned that "if one American is killed, I will hold Iran responsible. Think it over."

In recent days, US B-52 bombers have flown across the region for the second time in less than a month but, in what some read as a sign of de-escalation, Washington has also reportedly ordered its Nimitz aircraft carrier to leave the Gulf.

There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran's side as well as the anniversary drew nearer.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami vowed on Saturday to respond to any "action the enemy takes", as he visited a strategic Gulf island.

Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif even accused that Israel may try to provoke war by targetting US soldiers stationed in Iraq.

(With AFP inputs)

January 3, 2021, marked completion of one year of the assassination of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad International airport in Iraq.

January 3, 2021, marked completion of one year of the assassination of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad International airport in Iraq. Soleimani along with his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were among those killed in addition to other commanders. Thousands of Iraqi mourners condemned the killing and raised anti-US chants near Baghdad airport. Similar protests were seen in Syria, Lebanon, Yemen and elsewhere. Thousands of black-clad mourners Saturday night converged at the spot near Baghdad's international airport where the US hit the two vehicles and killed Soleimani, Muhandis and eight other men. The drone strike was ordered last year by outgoing US President Donald Trump last year. Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus. The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels. "We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar. × The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes. Soleimani's killing led to skyrocketing of tension between Iran and US who have been at odds for the much of Trump's presidency. As the first death anniversary approached the tension began rising again. With more mass gatherings planned Sunday at Baghdad's central Tahrir Square, Ahmed Assadi, one of the leaders of Hashed's parliamentary bloc, vowed: "Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, we will go out by the millions to brandish your portrait on Tahrir". In Pics | A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions Giant posters of Soleimani and Muhandis were hung up above the iconic square, which in late 2019 became the centre of large anti-government protests, from an abandoned building known as the Turkish restaurant. Amid the tensions, Iraqis, and many in the wider region, are nervously watching for any signs of escalation before Trump leaves the White House on January 20. Trump confronted decades-old foe Iran by withdrawing in 2018 from its nuclear deal with world powers and launching a "maximum pressure" campaign to further economically punish and isolate the country. Trump recently tweeted that the US was hearing the "chatter of additional attacks against Americans in Iraq", and warned that "if one American is killed, I will hold Iran responsible. Think it over." In recent days, US B-52 bombers have flown across the region for the second time in less than a month but, in what some read as a sign of de-escalation, Washington has also reportedly ordered its Nimitz aircraft carrier to leave the Gulf. There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran's side as well as the anniversary drew nearer. Iran's Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami vowed on Saturday to respond to any "action the enemy takes", as he visited a strategic Gulf island. Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif even accused that Israel may try to provoke war by targetting US soldiers stationed in Iraq. (With AFP inputs)

A year of Soleimani killing: Protesters raise anti-US chants in Iran, Iraq, Syria

Tensions are escalating in Iraq on the occasion of first anniversary of assassination of the top Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. Demonstrations condemning the US assassination of Soleimani took place in many parts of Iraq & also in Iran.

Demonstrations held across Iran & Iraq on Soleimani's first death anniversary

An Israeli minister on Sunday rubbished Iranian allegations that it would attack US troops in Iraq to spark a war in the region. Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy minister said that the allegations amounted to "nonsense". He was speaking on Kan public radio. Sunday (January 3) marked the first anniversary of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's assassination at the hands of the US in Baghdad.

Steinitz said that it was Israel that needed to be on alert for possible Iranian strikes.

There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran in the run-up to assassination anniversary. Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif had tweeted on January 2 that Israel was "plotting" an attack on US troops stationed in Iraq to spark a war in the region.

"New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs." tweeted Zarif.

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New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. 
 
Be careful of a trap, <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1345370089063915523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

As Sunday marked completion of a year of Soleimani assassination, protests were observed in Iran, Iraq and other countries.

Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus.

The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels.

"We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar.

The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

An Israeli minister on Sunday rubbished Iranian allegations that it would attack US troops in Iraq to spark a war in the region. Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy minister said that the allegations amounted to "nonsense".

An Israeli minister on Sunday rubbished Iranian allegations that it would attack US troops in Iraq to spark a war in the region. Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy minister said that the allegations amounted to "nonsense". He was speaking on Kan public radio. Sunday (January 3) marked the first anniversary of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's assassination at the hands of the US in Baghdad. Steinitz said that it was Israel that needed to be on alert for possible Iranian strikes. There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran in the run-up to assassination anniversary. Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif had tweeted on January 2 that Israel was "plotting" an attack on US troops stationed in Iraq to spark a war in the region. "New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs." tweeted Zarif. New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 2, 2021 × As Sunday marked completion of a year of Soleimani assassination, protests were observed in Iran, Iraq and other countries. Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus. The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels. "We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar. The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes. (With agency inputs)

Iran's allegations are 'nonsense', says Israeli minister

A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions

Iran hanged two men on Sunday for "terrorist acts" and another for murder and armed robbery, the judiciary's official Mizan Online news agency said.

The three were executed early Sunday morning in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province.

Two were named as Hassan Dehvari and Elias Qalandarzehi, arrested in April 2014 after being found with "a large amount of explosives" and weapons.

The pair were convicted of the abduction, bombing, murder of security forces and civilians, and of working with the jihadist Jaish al-Adl ("Army of Justice") group, Mizan said.

Dehvari and Qalandarzehi were also arrested in possession of documents from Jaish al-Adl on "how to make bombs" as well as "takfiri fatwas", terms used by Iran's Shiite authorities to refer to decrees issued by Sunni jihadists.

Jaish al-Adl has carried out several high-profile bombings and abductions in Iran in recent years.

In February last year, 27 members of Iran's Revolutionary Guards were killed in a suicide attack claimed by the group.

Jaish al-Adl was formed in 2012 as a successor to Sunni extremist group Jundallah ("Soldiers of God"), which waged a deadly insurgency for a decade before it was severely weakened by the capture and execution of its leader Abdolmalek Rigi in 2010.

The third man executed was named as Omid Mahmoudzehi. He was convicted of armed robbery and the murder of civilians, Mizan said. 
&nbsp;

Iran hanged two men on Sunday for "terrorist acts" and another for murder and armed robbery, the judiciary's official Mizan Online news agency said. The three were executed early Sunday morning in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province.

Iran hanged two men on Sunday for "terrorist acts" and another for murder and armed robbery, the judiciary's official Mizan Online news agency said. The three were executed early Sunday morning in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province. Two were named as Hassan Dehvari and Elias Qalandarzehi, arrested in April 2014 after being found with "a large amount of explosives" and weapons. The pair were convicted of the abduction, bombing, murder of security forces and civilians, and of working with the jihadist Jaish al-Adl ("Army of Justice") group, Mizan said. Dehvari and Qalandarzehi were also arrested in possession of documents from Jaish al-Adl on "how to make bombs" as well as "takfiri fatwas", terms used by Iran's Shiite authorities to refer to decrees issued by Sunni jihadists. Jaish al-Adl has carried out several high-profile bombings and abductions in Iran in recent years. In February last year, 27 members of Iran's Revolutionary Guards were killed in a suicide attack claimed by the group. Jaish al-Adl was formed in 2012 as a successor to Sunni extremist group Jundallah ("Soldiers of God"), which waged a deadly insurgency for a decade before it was severely weakened by the capture and execution of its leader Abdolmalek Rigi in 2010. The third man executed was named as Omid Mahmoudzehi. He was convicted of armed robbery and the murder of civilians, Mizan said.

Three executed in Iran for 'terrorist' acts and murder

Demonstrations in Iran and Iraq to condemn Soleimani's killing

Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif on Saturday accused Israel of trying to provoke a war. He said that &nbsp;Israel may try to do so by planning attacks on US forces in Iraq.

"New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans — putting an outgoing (President Donald) Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli (act justifying war)," tweeted Zarif.

"Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly," Zarif wrote.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. 
 
Be careful of a trap, <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1345370089063915523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A lot of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-beef-up-military-activity-in-gulf-ahead-of-soleimanis-first-death-anniversary-354027">muscle-flexing was observed from Iran</a> on January 2, 2021, just a day before completion of one year to assassination of&nbsp;top Iran commander Qassem Soleimani. On January 3, 2020 Soleimani was killed in US drone attack in Baghdad.

On Saturday, Iran Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami vowed to respond any "action the enemy takes". He was visiting a strategic gulf island.

"We are here today to evaluate and be assured of our powerful capabilities at sea and against enemies who sometimes boast... and threaten," Salami said, according to the Guards' official website Sepahnews.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-plans-to-enrich-uranium-to-up-to-20-per-cent-conveys-iaea-354043">Iran plans to enrich uranium to up to 20 per cent, conveys IAEA</a>

Salami inspected troops stationed on Abu Musa island, accompanied by the Revolutionary Guard Corps navy commander Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri.

"We would respond with a reciprocal, decisive and strong blow to whatever action the enemy would take against us," Salami warned.

Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunb islands are located in the Gulf near the entrance to the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of world oil output passes.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif on Saturday accused Israel of trying to provoke a war. He said that Israel may try to do so by planning attacks on US forces in Iraq.

Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif on Saturday accused Israel of trying to provoke a war. He said that Israel may try to do so by planning attacks on US forces in Iraq. "New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans — putting an outgoing (President Donald) Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli (act justifying war)," tweeted Zarif. "Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly," Zarif wrote. New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 2, 2021 × A lot of muscle-flexing was observed from Iran on January 2, 2021, just a day before completion of one year to assassination of top Iran commander Qassem Soleimani. On January 3, 2020 Soleimani was killed in US drone attack in Baghdad. On Saturday, Iran Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami vowed to respond any "action the enemy takes". He was visiting a strategic gulf island. "We are here today to evaluate and be assured of our powerful capabilities at sea and against enemies who sometimes boast... and threaten," Salami said, according to the Guards' official website Sepahnews. Also Read | Iran plans to enrich uranium to up to 20 per cent, conveys IAEA Salami inspected troops stationed on Abu Musa island, accompanied by the Revolutionary Guard Corps navy commander Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri. "We would respond with a reciprocal, decisive and strong blow to whatever action the enemy would take against us," Salami warned. Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunb islands are located in the Gulf near the entrance to the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of world oil output passes. (With AFP inputs)

Be careful of trap, Israel may provoke war with attacks on US forces: Iran to Trump

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